JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Sales Manager – Germany South

(Verkaufsleiter Deutschland Sud)

Reporting to:International Sales Manager

Location: Baden-Württemberg or Bavaria

PURPOSE

Responsible forgrowing profitable third party sales in a defined sales territory in Germany, namely the federal states of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria.

Manage and grow both the stockists and trade book holder networks ensuring that both channels exceed targets.

Working closely with the International Sales Manager to execute the Country sales strategy and business objectives in this area.

Summary of Main Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Grow the stockist network by locating prospective stockists (principally decorating professionals) and persuading them to stock and sell F&B products.
  • Grow like for like sales through the existing stockist network by improving on shelf availability and motivating their sales and marketing effort.
  • Ongoing review and evaluation of all stockists and trade book holders to maximise performance.
  • Provide technical assistance in the sale and application of F&B products including training new and existing stockists and their contractors.
  • Ensure all channels provide the very best customer advice with thorough product knowledge, including up-selling and cross-selling.
  • Provide detailed sales forecasting and budget proposals by account as required.
  • Attend local events at customer’s premises and national trade shows where F&B is a participant.
  • Attend annual stockist workshops and events in Germany and the UK as required.
  • Provide verbal and written progress reports to the International Sales manager as required.
  • Execute the agreed German marketing strategy for third party channels.
  • Ensure all stockists adhere to merchandising and display standards.
  • Monitor competitor activity and pricing and industry trends providing recommendations to ensure Farrow and Ball is effectively prepared.
  • Ensure the very best customer service to all customers at all times by raising issues with the International Sales Manager and proactively seeking solutions.
  • Project the F&B image for quality and integrity, acting as a Brand ambassador.

Education and Experience Required:

  • Relevant languages - German mother tongue with good written and spoken English.
  • A proven track record in developing and growing sales in market and strong negotiating skills.
  • Strong drive for results and determination to succeed.
  • Ideally a background in selling paint or other specialized interiors products with good local retail contacts in the region.
  • Ideally a good technical understanding of paint and wallpaper or willingness to learn
  • An experienced on the road sales person able to organise their time/appointments in order to maximise profitability.
  • Willing to travel extensively within the region.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, with the proven ability to win the confidence of new customers.

This is an outline Job Description and employees are expected to undertake other duties as directed.

Must be prepared to work as part of a team and assist or carry out other duties during periods of high workloads, sickness, holidays and emergencies.

1